Title
Vote to approve the grant application for $417,401 with a county match of $104,350 for the Accessible Park (AP) Grant Program for Parker’s Ridge Park
Abstract
Introduction & Background: In September 2011, the Parker Family sold Chatham County 147 acres in memory of Atlas and Lola Tart Parker. The property is located off Pea Ridge Road in Moncure, NC. The land was farmed by the Parker Family for over 70 years, and Atlas and Lola Tart Parker would have wished for this property to be used for recreation and green space to preserve the rural beauty of southeastern Chatham County, and to be used to benefit the residents of Moncure and all of Chatham County. A Resolution was adopted in December 2019 by the Chatham County Board of Commissioners in honor of the land to be named Parker’s Ridge Park in Memory of Atlas and Lola Tart Parker. The Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan was approved and adopted in 2019. As part of the Master Plan for the Park, public meetings and surveys were conducted. The Park will be developed into many phases. Phase One will include: parking, sidewalks, playground, restroom and shelter, pump track, accessible pathway loop and more.
Discussion & Analysis: The Accessible Grant Program (AP) is administered through the Division of Parks and Recreation and the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund. It provides $12.5 million in matching grants for Parks and Recreation to benefit people living with disabilities in North Carolina. It can be used for the construction of new facilities, or adaptation of existing facilities. The maximum amount that can be requested is up to $500,000. Applicants must match the Grant with at least $1 of local funds for every $5 in grant funds. The objective of the Accessible Grant Program is to provide universal access and opportunities for recreation for all. This request focuses on building an accessible playground and ADA infrastructure to provide accessibility and connectivity. The playground and infrastructure ensure people of all abilities can access and enjoy these features in the new park.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: Provide recreational opportunities and access to open space.
Budgetary Impact: The Parker’s Ridge Park Project has a capital project ordinance.
Grant request will be $417,401 and County match will be $104,350.
Recommendation/Motion: Motion to approve the grant application for $417,401 with a county match of $104,350 for the Accessible Park (AP) Grant Program for Parker’s Ridge Park.